The Roman Martyrology commemorates Saints Joseph Arimathea and Nicodemus, who lived in first-century in Jerusalem at the time of Christ, and are mentioned in the Gospels. They received the dead body of Jesus deposited from the cross, wrapped it in linen and placed it in a tomb owned by Joseph. Joseph, was a "noble counselor" and disciple of the Lord, awaiting for the kingdom of God. Nicodemus, was a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, who were the ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night asking questions about his mission. In the presence of the Sanhedrin who wanted to seize Jesus, Nicodemus defended his cause.